Look who’s talking

By: Raja Furqan Ahmed

Another political movement by the opposition parties named the Pakistan Democratic Movement against the government started from the Jalsa in Gujranwala. The power show was quite successful despite the administration’s role by placing hurdles such as containers to stop the movement of masses toward Jalsa Gah.

On the other side, the united opposition immaturity lacked behind, reached Jalsa Gah too late which also shows their behaviour. The Jalsa was hosted by the second-largest opposition party Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PMLN).

Every Eye was on the Jalsa and especially the speech which will show the direction of movement. Nawaz Sharif, the former prime minister criticised the role of government and establishment. He also reveals some new facts regarding the role of state institutions in political affairs. His speech was much highlighted globally.

After his speech, its show that from now onward Nawaz will play the role of revolutionary such as Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther, John Calvin etc. but here the question arises why from now.

There is a famous proverb that “look who’s talking.” The PMLN political birth takes place during the era of dictator Zia-ul-Haq. Due to Nawaz close ties with the establishment, he was gifted power firstly in the province and then in the centre. Let’s see the recent relations between both, during the interview of a senior journalist with Shahbaz Sharif, he reveals that the establishment contact him regarding 2018 elections and even both finalized the future cabinet of government but later on the establishment back off.  Here the question again arises that if they believe in civilian supremacy why they are meeting with the state institute.

The united opposition main concern is that if we do, it’s fine but if others do, that’s wrong. This shows the credibility of our political leaders who are using the term “Democracy” only for their personal cause. However, the PTI government should take the responsibility of building the state and facilitate the folks rather than giving statements. 

The writer is a student of International Relations and Freelance journalist currently based in Islamabad, Pakistan. He can be reached at [email protected]